The cause of the explosion remains under investigation, police have said

A popular nightlife venue in the ski resort of Crans-Montana was rocked by an explosion shortly after the arrival of the New Year, killing several people and leaving others injured, Swiss police have said.

Emergency services were dispatched shortly after midnight following reports of a powerful blast and fire at or near a bar and lounge frequented by vacationers.

Eyewitness footage circulating on social media shows flames engulfing part of the venue and thick smoke rising into the night sky.

Source: RT - Daily news